CAF, Sao Paulo teaming up for small hydropower study

SAO PAULO, Brazil 5/21/12 (PennWell) -- The Andean Development Corporation and the governor of Brazil's Sao Paulo state have signed an agreement that will provide non-reimbursable funds for the research and evaluation of small hydropower plants.

The agreement, signed by corporation representative Moira Paz Estenssoro and Sao Paulo governor Geraldo Alckmin, is meant to determine the potential for expansion at existing sites and to identify others for new development.

This information will then be used by state officials in their policymaking decisions, says Estenssoro.

The Andean Development Corporation says it is specifically researching the expansion and development of small hydroelectric plants as they are the most economically feasible option for Sao Paulo communities and the least environmentally intrusive.